I hope the return to school has gone smoothly and everyone is back in their routines after an enjoyable summer. It's also back-to-school time at the Gould Construction Institute, ABC's training affiliate. But while the rhythm of the academic calendar is unchanging, the Gould continues to change and evolve to better serve ABC member company needs.
This year the Gould celebrates its 30th anniversary. Its new tag line, "Building Career Paths Since 1983," reflects the school's new focus on creating career paths for its students, not just helping them meet training requirements.
Achieving the goal of helping students develop career paths in the construction industry requires partnering with other organizations. This year, the Gould has added two representatives of partner organizations to its board of trustees. John Lavoie is director superintendent of the Greater Lawrence Vocational Technical School, and Liam Tran joins the board from Wentworth Institute of Technology.
In addition to working with the Gould on a program for students interested in construction management, Wentworth will now award students who have completed four years in the Gould's electrician's program 27 of the 60 credits needed for an Associate Degree In Applied Science Degree Engineering (AENT - Electrical Concentration).
The Gould's new Trade Recognition Program also promotes career paths for men and women interested in furthering their education and moving up to become foremen or superintendents. The program is particularly helpful to those who work in non-licensed trades, because it provides them with an all-important credential.
As our industry rebounds from a long, painful recession, ABC member companies will again be focused on trying to attract and maintain a high-quality workforce. The Gould Construction Institute, with its focus on construction industry career paths, can be an important tool to help you build long and mutually beneficial relationships with your employees.
Tom Descoteaux is the chairman of the Mass. Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, Woburn, Mass.